From Hashtag to Hikes
Grassroots Group Encourages Community.
By Becca Bona
Cedar Falls Trail at Petit Jean State Park. - Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism
Sometimes all it takes for the intangible to become tangible is a dream and a little bit of technology. Jessica Ross, a digital creator from Bryant, turned her love of the outdoors into a thriving community through her social media group, We AR Hikers.
“Growing up, I was exposed to the outdoors a lot, even though I wasn’t much of an outside kid, especially because of my Grandpa Kenny,” she said. Her grandfather’s career with the Ozark-St. Francis Forestry Service planted the seeds of a passion that would fully bloom in her 30s when she started hiking regularly.
Ross’ journey into hiking wasn’t just about exploring trails, but also about building connections.
“Making friends as an adult can be difficult, especially if you move to a new area,” she explained. Sharing her hiking adventures on social media quickly morphed into a dedicated following, and soon people were reaching out asking to hike with her. After a solo hiking accident left her with a broken ankle and no cell service, the importance of hiking with friends became clear.
“The need to hike with others increased,” she recalled.
In 2023, she launched We AR Hikers, an inclusive, family-friendly community now with over 800 members, where hikers can connect through organized meetups.
Arkansas native Jessica Ross fosters community and connection through her grassroots hiking group, We AR Hikers. - Photo provided by Jessica Ross
“Obviously, the hiking is great, but the company kept growing and seeing the community happen is what makes it better,” Ross said.
For Ross, winter is an especially magical time to hike in Arkansas. “Waterfalls are usually flowing, bugs aren’t a concern, and with the leaves off the trees, you can see views you might miss in other seasons,” she said.
Here are her top three winter hikes to inspire your next adventure:
Caddo Bend Trail in Lake Ouachita State Park
The Caddo Bend Trail, nestled in Lake Ouachita State Park, offers the quintessential Arkansas hiking experience with its captivating views and diverse landscapes. This roughly 4-mile loop trail winds through the picturesque Ouachita Mountains, showcasing pristine forests, rugged rock formations and breathtaking vistas of Lake Ouachita — the largest man-made lake in Arkansas.
The trail is moderately challenging, making it a great choice for adventurous families or intermediate hikers. Starting near the visitor center, it meanders through lush hardwood forests and along the scenic lakeshore. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, squirrels and a variety of bird species. As the trail ascends, hikers are rewarded with panoramic overlooks of the sparkling blue lake and its surrounding hills, a stunning view year-round.
Caddo Bend Trail is well-marked, with benches and resting spots strategically placed along the route, perfect for taking in the views or enjoying a picnic. The final stretch leads back to the trailhead, offering a satisfying conclusion to the loop.
Cedar Falls Trail in Petit Jean State Park
The Cedar Falls Trail at Petit Jean State Park is a must-visit gem for outdoor enthusiasts exploring The Natural State. This 2-mile out-and-back trail offers a blend of accessibility and adventure, making it one of Arkansas’s most beloved hikes. Starting near the iconic Mather Lodge, the trail descends into Cedar Creek Canyon, leading adventurers through lush forest terrain and alongside scenic rock formations. The real highlight, however, is the awe-inspiring Cedar Falls — a 95-foot waterfall that cascades into a serene pool below.
Recognized as a National Recreation Trail, the Cedar Falls Trail is moderately challenging, with rocky paths and a steep incline on the return journey. It’s suitable for families and beginner hikers who are prepared for a bit of effort to enjoy the incredible views. The path is well-maintained and marked, but sturdy shoes are recommended to navigate the uneven terrain.
This trail is a year-round favorite, but the waterfall is especially stunning after a good rain, when the flow is most robust. Photographers will find endless inspiration, and nature lovers can soak in the tranquil ambiance of the falls and surrounding canyon.
Kings Bluff Falls, a 114-foot cascade in the Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area, earns an honorable mention on Ross’ list of top winter hikes, especially after a rain. Last winter, Ross and a group from We AR Hikers visited the falls at the perfect time to take in its beauty. - Photo provided by Jessica Ross
Centerpoint to Goat Trail on the Buffalo River
The Goat Trail to Big Bluff is a renowned hiking route in Arkansas’s Buffalo National River area, celebrated for its breathtaking vistas and geological significance. This 5.9-mile out-and-back trail begins at the Centerpoint Trailhead near Ponca and is generally considered a moderately challenging route.
Hikers embark on a descent through dense Ozark forest, following the Centerpoint Trail for about 2.5 miles. The path, once an old wagon road, is broad and easy to walk, although like many trails in the mountainous Buffalo River country, it’s uphill on the return journey.
At the junction, veer right onto Goat Trail, a narrow ledge that leads to Big Bluff. This section is not recommended for children or individuals with a fear of heights, as the trail is extremely narrow and follows the edge of a 350-foot-high sheer cliff.
Upon reaching Big Bluff, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Buffalo River winding through the valley below. The bluff, standing at 550 feet, is the tallest sheer bluff face between the Rocky and Appalachian mountains.
The return hike is uphill, with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet back to the trailhead. Hikers are advised to carry at least two liters of water, salty snacks and a detailed trail map. Sturdy footwear is crucial due to the steep, rocky, and uneven terrain.
For more tips, tricks or to join the hiking community, follow Jessica Ross on Instagram: @jesshikes_ar.
